Hannah Anderson
Imagine waking up one groggy-eyed morning and reaching for your phone to see your name listed on Michelle Obama’s August 2020 playlist. This is exactly what happened to multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and artist Hannah Anderson, who goes by the stage moniker Sister. This well-deserved placement is a testament to the depth of Anderson’s talent, which is instantly heard in her sultry, calming and soulful song “Love Me Right.” In addition to her clear aptitude for creating soothing and poignant jams, Anderson’s creative repertoire includes painting, sewing, styling, and probably more skills we’ve yet to discover. She’s simply one of those women you spot and wonder “who is she? and can I be her friend?” Anderson is currently working on a new EP and is a frequent collaborator with brands like Lacausa and Asos for her down-to-earth vibe, unique sense of style and genuine beauty—all of which and so much more make her so damn Dandy.
It's been quite a year so far. How are you doing mentally?
It has truly been quite the year. I have my good days and bad days. I'm coming to the point where I've realized everything has changed and I don't know if anything will be the same ever again. Change is always tough, so I'm just trying to lean into it. Like I said—some days are better than others! I miss going to the movies.
We know you're from Houston. Did you grow up in a creative household? Or when did you discover your interests and gifts in the arts?
The most important thing growing up was access to creative outlets. My first memory of having access to creative supplies was around four or five years old; my mom had a bottom shelf that was specifically for crayons, craft supplies, and puzzles. I was homeschooled, so I had nothing but time. Especially in my middle and high school years, I would always try to finish my schoolwork by noon and then just do whatever I wanted for the rest of the day; guitar, sewing, crafting, etc. That was huge for me. It's always been something I've prioritized.
Your song "Love Me Right" was included on Michelle Obama's new playlist. How did you feel when you saw that come out? Did you know it was happening beforehand?
I was honestly floored. I was informed that she wanted to use it for the podcast—which I couldn't believe—but I wasn't sure if it was official yet. I logged onto Instagram and someone sent me her playlist photo that included “Love Me Right.” That’s when I realized, ‘Oh! This is real life!’
Do you find yourself writing songs after the heat of the moment that inspired it has passed, or do you write at the time the feeling is happening?
It's typically a combination. I am heavily ruled by my emotions, which is both positive and negative. Sometimes in the moment I can't even formulate a thought or think logically so I end up looking back a lot and writing after an event has passed, but I've also written in the moment (mostly during positive moments) where I'll have a line pop into my head, or hear someone say something and write it in my notes for later. It changes a lot for me. I have to be aware and stay open in knowing that all songs don't happen the same way.
How would you best describe your approach to sourcing creativity? Do you ever experience creative ruts?
If I'm writing I'll put my phone on do not disturb or put it in the next room to stay focused. Otherwise, it's not happening. While painting, I'll put on some music or a podcast and make it a goal to not touch my phone. Phones can be so distracting! I get into ruts quite often, but I've been making it a priority to do my creative projects even if I'm not inspired. With the routine, of it, you eventually find inspiration.
You've collaborated with brands like ASOS, Lacausa, and Teen Vogue. Can you tell us a bit about what you did with them and what you look for in brand partners?
With any brand partner, I have to love the company! I love a positive message and a positive mission; anyone who's practicing sustainability; or if it's just a cute brand I can't resist!
We love to hear about a good skincare routine. What’s yours?
My skin has changed drastically in the past 6 months so I'm on a mission to figure out what she's wanting because right now she’s fickle. The main thing for me is keeping my skin clean and hydrated. I love an Aztec Healing Clay Mask. I just started using this Moringa and Lemongrass Oil from True Moringa and it's working wonders on my skin and smells sooo good!
What are your essential products?
The two main things for me are: Dr. Bronners Peppermint Chapstick and lotion! I need these two more than I need air. Lipstick. Highlighter. Miss Jessie's Leave-In Conditioner.
How has your relationship with your body evolved over time? We all have our phases. Where would you say you're at now?
I'm in a really weird place with my body right now. For a long time, I felt really good about myself and lately I've just been feeling off. When the lockdown started I was eating well and working out, then the heaviness of everything got to me. I moved cross country and now I'm just trying to get into a new routine and create new habits for myself. Overall, it's been really tough, but I’m learning to love myself anyway and make decisions based off of self love and not off of hating the way I look.
What's something you'd like to accomplish in the next year?
To learn to appreciate my victories, even the small ones!
What projects are currently in the works?
I'm currently working on a new project of five new songs! I’m so excited and should be done working on the songs this month. It will probably come out early next year! It's weird this year is almost over already.
Any good playlist recommendations? Or simply some bands/artists you're into right now?
There's this song called “Come Over” by Melvitto and it just makes me want to float away. “Are You Even Real?” by James Blake. “Say That You Love Me” by Mackeson.
Being an artist as a profession is not an easy road. How did you get "noticed" and what were some of your "holy shit this is really happening" moments?
It's truly not easy. I've had many days where I just never want to do this again. There's been a lot of moments here and there over the years, but I truly feel this Michelle Obama Podcast/Playlist feature was it for me.
What are some of your instant mood boosters when you're not feeling your best?
I'm still trying to figure this out. Send me some tips!!
You tweeted "When u wanna run away from yourself but you are every where you go" and we really relate to that. It takes a lot of evolving to get to that point. Have you moved or traveled to places thinking you were going to start this brand new life and then realized it was you who needed to create that new life or outlook?
Oh my god! That tweet was so real. I was like should I even post this, this feels dark—but that's life. I have moved so many places, had so many friendships, been in so many states, and it wasn't until very recently that I realized that. It's a completely different feeling to be somewhere (physically or mentally) and just accept that's where you are. It's like a bad trip; as soon as you fight it, it gets worse.
What's one of your favorite things about yourself?
One of my favorite things about myself is my caring nature. I care and love very deeply. I also like my smile!
What's one of your biggest insecurities?
My biggest insecurity has always been my body. I'm very curvy and my weight fluctuates a lot, so I've always had a hard time with that!
Share one of your favorite lyrics from a song you love:
“In this world of overrated pleasures
And underrated treasures
I'm glad there is you”
Your vices:
Coffee my be my only vice besides Instagram/mindless scrolling. I always use that to escape and realize it makes me feel worse.